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Comparison of ultra-flocculation reactors applied to fine quartz slurries

Abstract:

Ultraflocculation can be defined as: flocculation performed in a highly non-uniform hydrodynamic field (ε>1 [J/kg·s], G > 103 [s-1]) in a short period of time (t<10 [s]), which is used mainly to aggregate fine particles in dispersed, and diluted systems. In this study, four hydraulic ultra-flocculation reactors were tested, UF1, UF2, UF3 and UF4 with tangential inlets/outlets and a cylindrical body, the inside of which varies by reactor. Model flocculated fine quartz slurries were employed as material. Based on a comparison of the three flocculation process indicators – initial settling velocity, supernatant turbidity, and sludge volume – in general the reactors present better performance than that in the base case. There was an average improvement in settling velocity of 300[%], turbidity remains below 100 [NTU], and sludge volume values indicated a higher possibility of water recirculation. Additionally, it was observed that the ultra-flocculation process could be used in relatively concentrated suspensions (φ>10-2) with treatment times below to 5 [s].